The Fumbling Forager

You’ve probably walked by this plant hundreds of times without giving it much thought.

Pineapple weed (Matricaria discoidea) is a small member of the aster family that often grows in gravel driveways, sidewalk cracks, paths, parking lots and other disturbed areas. Because it is so common, many people assume it is just another weed. In reality, it has a long history of traditional use and is closely related to German chamomile.

A Close Relative of Chamomile

Pineapple weed is often used in many of the same ways as German chamomile. The flower heads contain many of the same types of plant compounds found in chamomile, including flavonoids and aromatic compounds.

Traditionally, pineapple weed tea has been used to support digestion, particularly after meals or during periods of digestive discomfort. It is also considered a gentle relaxing herb and has been used to help ease tension.

Herbalists commonly describe pineapple weed as antispasmodic and mildly analgesic. Because of these properties, it has also been used traditionally for menstrual cramp relief.

How to Identify Pineapple Weed

One of the easiest ways to identify pineapple weed is by smell.

The small cone-shaped flower heads have a distinctive fruity aroma. Crush a flower head between your fingers and take a sniff. Many people describe the scent as remarkably similar to pineapple, which is where the plant gets its common name.

The leaves are finely divided and feathery, giving them an appearance similar to chamomile leaves. They also carry the same characteristic scent.

Unlike many daisies and chamomiles, pineapple weed flowers do not have white petals. Instead, they form small yellow-green cone-shaped flower heads that stand above the foliage.

Herbal Uses

Pineapple weed has a long history of use in herbalism and because it’s closely related to German chamomile, many herbalists use the two plants in similar ways.

Pineapple weed tea can support digestion, particularly after meals or during periods of occasional digestive discomfort. It’s especially useful when those stomach issues are caused by stress, since the plant is known for both digestive and relaxing qualities.

Pineapple weed is also considered an antispasmodic herb, meaning it’s used to ease muscle tension and spasms. This makes it good for helping with menstrual cramps and other types of muscular discomfort.

Like chamomile, pineapple weed is often used as a gentle calming herb. A cup of pineapple weed tea can be a relaxing bedtime routine. Its pleasant aroma and mild flavor make it one of the easier medicinal teas for many people to enjoy regularly.

Fresh plants can be crushed and applied directly to the skin, while stronger infusions can be used as washes or compresses. Because the plant has mild antimicrobial properties, it has traditionally been used for insect bites, minor skin irritations, mild sunburns and small abrasions.

Harvesting Considerations

One important consideration when harvesting pineapple weed is where it grows.

Pineapple weed readily bioaccumulates contaminants from its environment. Because it is commonly found along roadsides, parking lots and other disturbed areas, harvesters should be selective about where they gather it.

Always choose plants growing in clean areas away from vehicle traffic, chemical applications and other potential sources of contamination.

Pineapple Weed Tea

Pineapple weed tea is one of the simplest ways to enjoy this aromatic plant.

Ingredients

• 1 to 2 tablespoons fresh pineapple weed flower heads and leaves, or
• 1 to 2 teaspoons dried pineapple weed
• 1 cup hot water

Directions

1. Place the pineapple weed in a mug or tea infuser.
2. Pour hot water over the plant material.
3. Cover and steep for 10 to 15 minutes.
4. Strain and enjoy.

The tea has a mild, fruity flavor that many people compare to pineapple with chamomile-like notes. Honey may be added if desired.

Always harvest pineapple weed from clean areas away from roadsides, parking lots and other potential sources of contamination.